15 Regional Artists Inspired by 15 Poets in Reverse Ekphrasis Exhibit at RBG

Come on down to the river where nature, art and poetry meet on the beautiful Allegheny in Foxburg in a Red Brick Gallery exhibit, Reverse Ekphrasis: Artists Responding to Poetry, that celebrates the shared vision and mutual inspiration of 15 regional artists creating original paintings, photographs and jewelry in direct response to poetry submitted by 15 writers from the region. The works will be presented side by side in the Upstairs Gallery demonstrating the collaboration and richness of culture in our region.

The exhibit is an RBG collaboration with Bridge Literary Artists and runs weekends from Friday, May 29 to Sunday, July 5. Weekend RBG hours are Fridays, 1-6 PM; Saturdays, 11 AM to 7 PM; and Sundays, 12 noon to 5 PM.

At the Poetry Reading and wine and cheese opening on Saturday, May 30 from 2 to 4 PM, the audience will become active participants, looking through both the poets’ and artists’ eyes in moments of shared meaning. RBG exhibits and receptions are open to all.

Poet Philip Terman who co-produced the initial Ekphrasis exhibit in 2023 described this artistic permutation. “We generally think of creative types working alone in their studios or writing nooks in producing their works of art or poems. But creatives of all stripes are continually inspired and nurtured in collaboration with other creatives, stretching their imaginations.

Over the years, the concept has transformed into poets responding to visual works of art. Two years ago the Redbrick Gallery presented a unique exhibit of “ekphrasis,” — the Greek term for “using a vivid description of a thing.” The exhibit featured our region’s poets creating poems inspired by our region’s artists. It was a rousing success.

This year, Jason Lewis, the gallery’s ever-creative curator, wondered: What if our artists were inspired by our poets? And so: “Reverse Ekphrasis” was born! The Bridge Literary Arts Center is thrilled for the exceptional opportunity to partner once again with our area’s inspired visual artists once again, this time—in reverse!”

The RBG’s Artistic Director and curator, Jason Floyd Lewis, said, “It is a great pleasure to present Reverse Ekphrasis at the Red Brick Gallery.  It has been a wonderful experience to read the curated poems and then to see each artist respond in their own unique way.  The diverse collection of poetry contains moments of emotion, introspection, and inspiration, all evoking a wide range of imagery.  

I admire the enthusiasm and courage that the artists have demonstrated in accepting this challenge, and the beautiful creations that have resulted. I am eager to display the art pieces alongside the poetry in what will be a fascinating exhibition.  

The collaborative project will reach a second fulfillment when the participants come together to share in the spirit of creativity at the poetry reading.  The reception promises to be a great time for interaction amongst the artistic community, as some of the participants will meet one another for the first time.”  The participating artists include Jae Austin, Nancy Connelly, Anne Cutri, Marcy Hall, Mary Hamilton, Jill Harry, Keith Hileman, Jamie Hunt, Leah Hyatt, Julia McCray, Rafi and Klee, Aurora Risto, Kris Risto, Richard Sayer and James Stewart           Poets are Shelly Boughner, Brady Buchanan, Hilary Buchanan, Greg Clary, Cindy Eckert, Andy Johnson, Keith Hileman, Byron Hoot, Chuck Joy, Tracey Lander-Garrett, Gail Oare, BE Rumore, Wayne H. Swanger, Philip Terman and Karen Weyant.

The Red Brick Gallery and Gift Shop is located along the Allegheny River at 17 Main Street in Foxburg, PA 16036.